Imperatives of Youth engagement in Agriculture and Implications for deviance in Enugu State, Nigeria

Nwokeoma Bonaventure N. (PhD) Nwokeoma Bonaventure N. (PhD)Department of Sociology/Anthropology University of Nigeria Nsukka, NigeriaEmailSearch for this author on:Google SchoolAmadi, Kingsley Chinedu Amadi, Kingsley ChineduDepartment of Sociology and Anthropology Faculty of Social Sciences University of Nigeria, NsukkaEmailSearch for this author on:Google SchoolOsadebe Nnabuike, O (PhD) Osadebe Nnabuike, O (PhD)Department of Sociology/Anthropology University of Nigeria, NsukkaEmailSearch for this author on:Google SchoolIgbo Emmanuel Uzodinma Mazi (Prof) Igbo Emmanuel Uzodinma Mazi (Prof)Department of Sociology and Anthropology Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Nigeria, NsukkaEmailSearch for this author on:Google SchoolEde, Kelechi Ruth Ede, Kelechi RuthDepartment of Agricultural Science Education Faculty of Education, Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State NigeriaEmailSearch for this author on:Google SchoolEmailSearch for this author on:Google School

Abstract

Context/background:

In Nigeria, over 70% of the population engage
in agriculture which implies that most of the Nigeria population rely on
agriculture for sustenance. The youth category is a core segment of the
population whose engagement in agriculture needs to be examined for future
sustainability. This paper therefore examines the imperatives of youth engagement
in agriculture and implications for deviance within the study area.

Methodology

The study was
conducted in Nsukka agricultural zone, Enugu state and adopted a cross-sectional
survey design. A sample of 620 youth aged 18-35 years was systematically
selected. Data was collected through the questionnaire instrument and was
analysed using relevant frequency tables and regression analysis.

Findings:

The study confirmed
low youth engagement in agriculture. Factors responsible are lack of finance,
predominant use of crude implements and lack of government support. Apathy to
agriculture in the face of massive unemployment could lead to deviance
activities like drug addiction, alcoholism and cultism.

Conclusion

The study
concludes that agriculture should be made attractive to the youth by
introducing modern techniques and equipment. Also modern crop varieties and
soft loans should be provided to the youth.